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Abstract:

A method for providing a user with the ability to access and collect
records associated with the user in a secure and private manner includes
associating access information with the user for the user to use to
access a server storing files comprising records associated with the user
in a computer readable storage medium, providing the user with a user
interface on a computing device to remotely access the records stored on
the server, receiving at the server the files comprising records
associated with the user from a service provider associated with the
user, receiving at the server a request from the user made through the
user interface of the computing device for access to the files, wherein
the access information is associated with the request, and sending the
user a file containing the records associated with user from the server
to the computing device in response to the request.

Claims:

1. A method comprising: identifying a personal health record using a
phone number, wherein the step of identifying is performed by a computer.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the phone number is a 10 digit number.

3. The method of claim 1 further comprising electronically sending the
personal health record to the individual using the phone number.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein the personal health record is stored on
a computer readable storage medium.

5. The method of claim 1 further comprising assigning the phone number to
the individual.

6. The method of claim 1 further comprising associating the phone number
with the individual.

7. The method of claim 1 further comprising electronic access to the
personal health record by the individual.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein the electronic access is provided
through a web site associated with a web server.

9. The method of claim 8 further comprising associating access
information with the individual for the individual to use to access the
personal health record.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein the access information comprises a
password.

11. The method of claim 1 further comprising sending the personal health
record as a fax to the phone number.

12. A method comprising: identifying an individual associated with a
personal health record using a phone number, wherein the step of
identifying is performed by a computer; associating a user account with
the individual and the phone number; associating access information with
the user account, wherein the access information includes a password.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein the phone number is a 10 digit number.

14. The method of claim 12 further comprising electronically sending the
personal health record to the individual using the phone number.

15. The method of claim 12 wherein the personal health record is stored
on a computer readable storage medium.

16. The method of claim 12 further comprising assigning the phone number
to the individual.

17. The method of claim 12 further comprising associating the phone
number with the individual.

18. The method of claim 12 wherein the user account is accessible through
a web site associated with a web server.

19. The method of claim 1 further comprising sending the personal health
record as a fax to the phone number.

20. A method comprising identifying an individual associated with a
personal health record using a phone number, wherein the step of
identifying is performed by a computer.

Description:

PRIORITY STATEMENT

[0001] This application is a Continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.
13/663,101 filed Oct. 29, 2012, which is a Continuation application of
U.S. Ser. No. 13/041,809 filed Mar. 7, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,301,466
issued Oct. 30, 2012, which is a Continuation application of U.S. Ser.
No. 12/204,465 filed Sep. 4, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,117,646 issued on
Feb. 14, 2012, which is a Continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 11/305,685 filed
Dec. 16, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,117,045 issued on Feb. 14, 2012, which
is a Continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/225,518, filed Sep. 12, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No.
8,121,855 issued on Feb. 21, 2012, all of which are hereby incorporated
by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to the provision of online records.
More particularly, the present invention relates to providing a means for
consumers to request their medical records from healthcare providers,
store their medical records, and provide for private communications
between the consumers and their healthcare providers.

[0003] Medical and other health information can be particularly sensitive
communications. Laws such as the HIPPA Privacy Rule restrict, limit, or
place specific conditions on the dissemination of medical records. Laws
such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
provide a patient with the right to access to their own medical records.

[0004] A health provider, such as a hospital may require a patient to
submit to their own privacy practices as a condition for treatment or
admittance. A privacy practice statement by the health provider will
likely explain that the patient has the right to inspect and copy their
medical records, but there may be significant procedural hurdles to
overcome that burden both the health provider and the patient. For
example, the patient may be required to provide a written request, there
may be processing delays in receiving copies of the medical or health
related records, and the patient may incur additional processing charges
resulting from the inconvenience created for the health provider to
comply with the procedural hurdles that they put in place to avoid
inappropriately disclosing records of their patients.

[0005] Of course, privacy concerns regarding a patient's medical records
creates other problems for healthcare providers. For example, suppose a
healthcare provider needs to communicate with a patient over the phone to
check on a patient, request additional information regarding a patient's
current condition, to schedule a test, report the results of a test,
express the need for a return visit, or for other reasons related to
providing health care to the patient. The healthcare provider calls the
patient at home or at work and the patient is not available. Instead, the
phone is answered by another person who could be a co-worker or family
member. Alternatively, the healthcare provider is provided with the
opportunity to leave a voicemail message. The healthcare provider must be
very cautious to avoid inadvertently disclosing private information.
Thus, the healthcare provider may not be able to leave a message with
another person or with a voicemail system if doing so would violate the
patient's privacy rights or expectations of privacy. Even in cases where
the healthcare provider may be legally authorized to do so via a
previously agreed upon privacy policy, doing so may be against the
person's wishes as they did not understand what they were consenting to
when they consented to the privacy policy or did not understand their
rights under the privacy policy. A message for the patient may provide
other parties with more information then the patient would want them to
know. Even when a healthcare provider attempts to leave a seemingly
innocuous message with a voicemail system or with another individual,
more information may be shared then the patient wants to be shared. For
example, a message left with another requesting that the patient call a
particular doctor may be more than what the patient would want shared
with others. For example, suppose it is known or readily determined that
the doctor is an obstetrician and the patient is a woman who does not
want her significant other to know she is pregnant yet. Suppose it is
known or readily determined that the doctor is an oncologist and the
patient does not want their co-workers or employer to know that the
patient has cancer. Mere knowledge of the doctor's name, in these cases
would be sufficient to make an educated guess about the patient's
condition or potential condition. A patient may consider this a violation
of their privacy. Regardless of whether or not the patient has any legal
recourse, this can result in the patient being upset and can have a
negative impact on the relationship between the patient and their
healthcare provider.

[0006] Of course, instead of leaving a message, a healthcare provider
could simply call back, but this is inconvenient for the healthcare
provider or their staff and may unduly delay the amount of time before
the patient receives the message. Thus, private and secure communications
would benefit both the healthcare provider and the patient. The
healthcare provider would not have to worry about disclosing private
information to a party who should not have the information. And, the
patient would be more likely to receive the communications sooner and
could take comfort knowing that their privacy was maintained.

[0007] Another problem relating to medical records is that where an
individual sees multiple healthcare providers, the inconvenience of
requesting medical records is multiplied. Given the inconvenience and the
potential delay in obtaining records it is also likely that in such
instances the individual does not actually compile a complete medical
history. To the extent the individual has their records, the individual
must determine a method of storing and organizing them.

[0008] Yet another problem relating to medical records is that often times
they are most needed at a time when the individual is unable to provide
them. For example, in emergency situations it would be desirable for
caregivers to know and understand the individual's medical history.
Knowledge of specific allergies may be essential to avoid administration
of medications that would adversely impact the condition of the
individual. Knowledge of pre-existing conditions may be essential to
correct diagnosis and treatment. What is desired is a way that relevant
medical records could be shared when needed most.

[0009] Various attempts have been made to assist consumers with their
medical records in different ways. One example of such an attempt is
Synchart. Synchart is a web-based service (www.synchart.com) that allows
consumers to enter their personal and family health information into a
database. Users can enter doctor visits, immunizations, hospital visits,
allergies, and other relevant information and generate reports based on
the data entered. As part of the services, consumers receive a CD with
their medical information data, as well as a wallet card. Because medical
data is stored on the Synchart web server, user health information is
accessible from any Internet-connected computer, which Synchart claims
will allow doctors and other providers to access user information if the
user gives them account information.

[0010] One of the problems with a service such as Synchart is that it
requires users to enter information about their health histories into a
database, a time consuming and cumbersome process which is inconvenient
and sometimes difficult. These issues are further magnified if an
individual does not have a complete understanding of their medical
records. Another problem of such a system is that clerical errors by the
user can result in the user's medical records having inaccurate
information. A further problem is that medical information is not
immediately available if the individual does not immediately enter the
information. Such a problem is exacerbated by the fact that often times
when an individual is frequently seeing healthcare providers they are ill
or injured and it is particularly inconvenient for them to update their
medical records. Finally, such a system does not address issues of
obtaining the medical records from the healthcare provider.

[0011] Redi-Records is another example of a system that assists consumers
with obtaining access to their medical records. For a fee, Redi-Records
will gather all of a subscriber's medical records from different doctors
and hospitals. Once the records are gathered, Redi-Records will digitize
them and put them onto two mini-CDs. Users can carry 1 mini-CD in their
wallet and keep one at home. For an additional cost, the company will
update a user's records every 180 or 90 days. Such a service is marketed
with the promise that having records on a mini-CD will make it easier for
you to receive proper treatment in the event of a medical emergency. One
of the problems with such an approach is that the records are not
necessarily current. Another problem with such an approach is that a
third party is involved so that complex forms will need to be completed
by the consumer and the consumer's providers in order to grant the third
party access to the medical records which could cause delay in gathering
information. Due to the third party involvement, there is a chain of
human handling of the documents that could compromise the privacy of the
documents. In addition, the mini-CDs may not be secured or password
protected, or the information about how to access them readily available.
Where the mini-CDs are not secured or password protected, unauthorized
individuals could access a person's medical records.

[0012] Another prior art approach is HeartRecord
(www.heartcenteronline.com). This service focuses on cardiac patients.
Users pay a subscription fee and are able to enter information about
their medical history, doctors, and prescriptions into a database that is
accessible using the Internet and a secured password. As a result,
important information is available in the event of a medical emergency or
when users visit a doctor. HeartRecord also allows users to upload their
EKGs and other vital images to their account either from a computer, or
by e-mailing, faxing or mailing the image to the company. HeartRecord has
several inherent problems. HeartRecord's system places the onus of
entering data and uploading images completely on the user. HeartRecord's
system fails to contemplate the user's possible unfamiliarity with
entering data and uploading images. It also assumes the user will keep
their record current by practicing the utmost diligence in updating new
data and images to their account. Another problem with such as service is
that it is limited in scope. A further problem with such as system is
that it does not create a private communications link between a doctor
and patient.

[0013] Another prior art approach is demonstrated by Personal MD. This
product (www.personalmd.com) uses a fax-based technology to allow users
to store records that can be accessed via the Internet. Personal MD also
offers a feature where users can file the most critical information in a
folder marked "Emergency", which can be printed out by personnel via fax
in the event of a medical crisis. Personal MD also offers medication
reminders and other calendar features, and the site includes syndicated
health information content. One of the problems with this approach is
difficulty of use. For example with Personal MD, a non-dedicated number
is used thus the person sending a fax must enter a PIN before sending the
fax. This can create an unacceptable inconvenience for a busy doctor's
office and can cause frustration. Moreover, it also creates an additional
opportunity for human error in that use of the wrong pin number may
direct the fax to a wrong destination. Furthermore, the non-dedicated
number may be busy more often than not, adding to the frustration of
updating or accessing the user's medical records. Such a system is not
focused on providing a private communications link between a patient and
their healthcare provider.

[0014] Another prior art approach is Web MD Health Manager offered by
WebMD (www.webmd.com). This system allows users to enter data about their
personal health such as health conditions, blood pressure, cholesterol
level and other metrics. This system will then run those numbers against
a database to provide a personal "self-assessment" and provide tips on
better health. Such a system does not provide for storage of medical
records or a private communications links between a healthcare provider
and patient.

[0015] Another prior art approach is available from iHealthRecord.org.
This service provides an interactive data entry screen that allows users
to enter their personal and family health histories. This information can
then be printed out on a wallet card. One of the problems with such an
approach is that it requires users to enter information on their medical
records into a database, a time consuming and cumbersome task which
assumes the user will be diligent in updating their health history, but
even so may result in inaccuracies. In addition, this approach does not
provide a secure communications link between a healthcare provider and
their patient or offer storage and management of personal health and
medical records.

[0016] Another example of a prior art approach is disclosed in U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2004/0267572 to Emery et al. Emery is
directed towards a system for an online database for personal, medical,
appointment and other information. Emery also discloses providing
patients with emergency information ID cards which provide information
that can be used to access the online database. The system of Emery
requires either the patient or the healthcare provider to access the
online database and modify the online health records. Thus, such a system
is cumbersome to use, requiring patients to either enter their own
information without error in a timely fashion or require healthcare
providers to add yet another additional service which would require
additional time, resources, and familiarity or training with the system.

[0017] Another prior art approach is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2005/0209891 to Jacobus et al. Jacobus discloses
organizing and aggregating medical records, clinical observations, and
medical imagery into a common database which is accessible over the web.
Jacobus also allows providers to upload or update patient records and
patients to request that their information be uploaded. Such a system
requires the healthcare provider's use of the system and involvement in
the process. Thus, a patient would be unable to fully benefit from such a
system without all of their healthcare providers using the same system,
which their healthcare providers may not be willing or able to do,
particularly given the added time and costs which would be associated
with using such a system.

[0018] Another prior art approach is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2005/0251423 to Bellam et al. Bellam discloses a
programmable rules-based interface between a patient and an electronic
medical record (EMR) which allows controlled patient access to the EMR to
increase patient participation in the healthcare process. Bellam actually
limits a patient's access to their own data. In addition, Bellam does not
address the problems of obtaining a complete and accurate EMR.

[0019] Thus, despite the advancements in these areas, problems remain. In
particular, there is a general lack of recognition of the need to provide
secure and private communications between a healthcare provider and their
patient and to do so in a manner that is convenient to both the
healthcare provider and the patient. There is also a general lack of
recognition of the problems for an individual to exercise their rights to
receive access to their healthcare records and be able to store and
maintain those records in one secured, password protected account that
allows for files to be organized.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Therefore it is a primary object, feature, or advantage of the
present invention to improve upon the state of the art.

[0021] It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present
invention to facilitate health care personnel's compliance with HIPAA or
other legal requirements regarding privacy of medical records.

[0022] A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present
invention is to provide an individual with meaningful access to their
healthcare records thereby allowing the individual to exercise their
legal rights with respect to controlling access to their medical records.

[0023] Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention
is providing individuals with immediate access to healthcare records in
emergency situations to assist in providing appropriate care.

[0024] A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to provide a convenient and cost effective method for healthcare
providers to comply with laws regarding privacy of healthcare records.

[0025] A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present
invention is to provide a convenient and cost effective method for
individuals to request that their healthcare providers provide copies of
medical records.

[0026] Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to provide a private communications link between healthcare personnel and
their patients.

[0027] Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention
is to provide for placing an individual in control of their medical
records and allowing them to selectively provide access to others.

[0028] A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present
invention is to facilitate storing all of an individual or family's
medical records and related information in a single location so that
healthcare personnel can be given complete medical information/history
when needed or analysis can be performed on the medical records.

[0029] Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to provide a means for individuals to create calendars to remind them of
the need to refill prescriptions.

[0030] Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention
is to provide a means for individuals to create calendars to maintain
doctor's appointments.

[0031] A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to provide reminder messages regarding the need to refill prescriptions
or remember doctor's appointments.

[0032] A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present
invention is to provide a method to store, organize, and annotate medical
records and also to customize the storage by giving the user the ability
to name the folders in which those records are stored.

[0033] Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to give users the ability to upload images, such as x-rays or scans.

[0034] Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention
is to give users the ability to forward records via fax to a healthcare
provider.

[0035] A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to give users the ability to see if there are any possible interactions
between prescription drugs they are taking.

[0036] A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is
to provide a means for individuals to store and access not only medical
records, but other types of health records including dental records,
healthcare records associated with pets, and vital documents, including,
without limitation, wills, living wills, a power of attorney, and a
healthcare power of attorney.

[0037] Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention
is to allow for the healthcare provider to quickly and easily, yet
securely, communicate records associated with an individual to the
individual.

[0038] One or more of these and/or other objects, features, or advantages
of the present invention will become apparent from the specification and
claims that follow.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing a consumer with the ability to access and collect personal
health records associated with the consumer is provided. The method
includes assigning a phone number individually associated with the
consumer for fax and voice communications from a healthcare provider and
associating access information with the consumer for the consumer to use
to access a secure web site. The consumer is provided with a document to
provide to the healthcare provider exercising legal rights of the
consumer for access to the health records, the document requesting the
healthcare provider to send the health records to the phone number. The
method further provides for receiving a private fax communication
comprising a personal health record associated with the consumer for
which the consumer has requested and given permission to the healthcare
provider to send, converting the private fax communications into an image
file format (such as a PDF), storing the health record encoded in the
image file format, and providing the consumer with secure access to the
web site using the access information and providing on the web site an
interface to the health records of the consumer for the consumer to
access the health record.

[0040] The document may include an adhesive or be a sticker so that it can
be easily attached to the health records. An emergency access card which
includes access information and can be used by a third-party to access
the health record associated with the consumer in the event of a medical
emergency associated with the consumer can also be provided.

[0041] The web site interface preferably allows for organizing health
records into separate file folders with functionality for the consumer to
name the file folders and add file folders as well as provide additional
password protection for the file folders.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention a kit is
provided for assisting a customer with exercising rights to health
records associated with the customer, accessing the health records,
maintaining the health records as private, and providing access to the
health records in case of emergency. The kit includes an access card
comprising access information associated with the customer to be used to
access a secure web site providing access to health records of the
customer to be used to convey the access information to another in event
of a medical emergency associated with the customer. The kit also
includes at least one sticker exercising legal rights of the customer to
healthcare records and comprising instructions to a healthcare provider
to electronically send the health records to a destination and wherein
the health records sent to the destination are accessible on the secure
web site.

[0043] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method is
provided for providing a user with the ability to access and collect
records associated with the user in a secure and private manner. The
method includes assigning a phone number to the user for private fax and
voice communications from service providers, associating access
information with the user for the user to use to access a web site,
receiving a private fax communication comprising a record associated with
the user for which the user has requested and given permission to the
service provider to send to the phone number; converting the private fax
communications into an image file format, storing the record encoded in
the image file format, providing the user with access to the web site
using the access information and providing on the web site an interface
to the records of the user for the user to access the record, and wherein
the web site interface further provides for organizing and annotating the
records by the user into separate file folders with functionality for the
user to name the file folders and add file folders.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present invention a, kit is
provided for assisting a user with exercising rights to records
associated with the user and created by a service provider, accessing the
records, maintaining the records as private, and providing access to the
records in case of emergency. The kit includes an access card comprising
access information associated with the user to be used to access a secure
web site providing access to records of the user to be used to convey the
access information to another in event of an emergency associated with
the user and at least one document comprising a request to a service
provider to electronically send the records to a destination and granting
permission by the user to the service provider to electronically send the
records to the destination and wherein the records sent to the
destination are accessible on the secure web site.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present invention a system for
communicating records of a user, the system includes a consent document
providing instructions for and giving permission to a service provider to
fax records of a user to a dedicated phone number associated with the
user, a fax server for receiving faxes of the records directed to the
dedicated phone number, a web server in operative communication with the
fax server and adapted to provide a secure web-based interface to the
records, and wherein the web-based interface provides for organizing and
annotating the records by the user into separate file folders with
functionality for the user to name the file folders and add file folders.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing a user with the ability to access and collect records
associated with the user in a private manner is provided. The method
includes assigning a destination address associated with a user for
private fax communications from a service provider, associating access
information with the user for the user to use to access a web site,
receiving a private fax communication comprising a record associated with
the user for which the user has requested and given permission to the
service provider to send to a fax number, converting the record into an
image file format, storing the record encoded in the image file format,
associating the record encoded in the image file format with a user
account of the user, and providing the user with access to the user
account on the web site using the access information. The web site
provides an interface to the user for organizing and annotating the into
separate file folders with functionality for the user to name the file
folders and add file folders.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing a user with functionality for accessing and collecting records
associated with the user is provided. The method includes associating
access information with the user to use to access a web site, receiving a
record encoded in an image file format from a service provider,
automatically determining a user account associated with the record and
associating the record with the user account, and providing the user with
access to the user account on the web site using the access information.
The record encoded in the image file format is a representation of a
faxed communication from the service provider.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for
providing a user with the ability to access and collect records
associated with the user in a secure and private manner is provided. The
method includes assigning an identifier to the user for private fax and
voice communications from service providers, associating access
information with the user for the user to use to access a web site,
receiving a plurality of private fax communications from different
providers, each of the private fax communications comprising a record
associated with the user for which the user has requested and given
permission to the service provider to send to the phone number,
converting the private fax communications into image file formats,
storing the records encoded in the image file formats, and providing the
user with access to the web site using the access information and
providing on the web site an interface to the records of the user for the
user to use to access the record. The interface provides for organizing
the records into folders, creating additional folders, and naming the
folders.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] FIG. 1 is diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system of the
present invention.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a sticker authorizing
transmissions of records to the user account according to one embodiment
of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate a card with medical record access
information according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system of the
present invention.

[0053] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are flow diagrams illustrating an enrollment
process according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram for accessing records according to one
embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a screen display of a web site according to one
embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 8 is another screen display of a web site according to one
embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 9 is a screen display according to one embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a screen display for folder administration according to
another embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 11 is a screen display for an uploaded file feature according
to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 12 is a pictorial representation of a preferred embodiment of
a sticker providing instructions for faxing medical records.

[0061] FIGS. 13 and 14 are pictorial representations of a preferred
embodiment of a wallet card which can be used according to the present
invention.

[0062] FIG. 15 is diagram illustrating one embodiment of drug interacting
reporting and analysis of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0063] The present invention provides for a convenient method for
individuals to collect and store their private medical information and to
provide private communications between the individual and their
healthcare providers. One of the ways that the present invention collects
and stores private medical information and facilitates private
communications is through use of a LIFELINE which is a dedicated
toll-free number for fax and voice communications. This dedicated
toll-free number provides direct and private communications between a
healthcare provider and their patient so that a healthcare provider can
be assured that they are maintaining patient communications in secret and
to avoid violating applicable privacy laws or patient expectations
regarding privacy.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system 100 of
the present invention. In FIG. 1, a consumer or patient 102 is shown. A
healthcare provider 104 is also shown as well as a fax/voice server 106.
A web server 108 is operatively connected to the fax/voice server 106.
The healthcare provider 104 uses the phone 110 to communicate private
voicemail messages through a toll-free dedicated phone number to the
fax/voice server 106. In addition, the healthcare provider faxes health
or medical records 112 to the fax/voice server 106 using the toll-free
dedicated phone number. The medical record 112 preferably has a sticker
114 present on the medical record 112. The sticker 114 indicates or
instructs the healthcare provider 104 or their staff to fax the
information to the toll-free dedicated phone number. In addition, the
sticker 114 provides an indication of clear consent from the patient 102
to the healthcare provider 104 to the toll-free dedicated phone number.
Thus, it becomes a simple process for a consumer or patient 102 to
provide their healthcare provider 104 with instructions to fax health
records, a simple process for the healthcare provider 104 to obtain
permission to fulfill a request for healthcare records, and a simple
process for the healthcare provider 104 to do so in a secure and
convenient manner as the fax is going directly to a toll-free dedicated
phone number associated with the patient 102.

[0065] The web server 108 is operatively connected to the fax/voice server
106 such as over a network or otherwise. A patient 102 or their proxy can
communicate directly with the web server 108 through a computing device
109 or the fax/voice server 106 using a phone 117. The patient 102 can
use a LIFELINE card 116 that contains access information to log on to the
web server 108 associated with a web site of the present invention, or as
a reminder of their toll free dedicated phone number which they can call
to access voicemail messages, listen to text-to-speech conversion of
emails, or otherwise access information.

[0066] The present invention also allows a patient 102 to upload files
using a computing device 109 to the web server 108. In addition, the
patient 102 can use the computing device 109 to interact with the web
server 108 to specify that a prescription or other personal health record
is faxed via the fax/voice server 106 to a healthcare provider 104.

[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a sticker 114 for a patient to
give to their healthcare provider to request or instruct their healthcare
provider to fax medical records to the toll free dedicated phone number
associated with the patient. Although it is preferred that a sticker 114
be used because of the added convenience provided by being able to
permanently or semi-permanently attach to a patient file at a healthcare
providers office, the present invention contemplates that other types of
documents could be used. The sticker 114 includes the LIFELINE phone
number 120 which is the toll free dedicated phone number associated with
the patient. Note that there is no pin number required which greatly
simplifies the process of faxing documents. In addition, the name 122 of
the patient is shown. There is also a written request 124 on the sticker
114 that instructs the healthcare provider to fax the records and
explicitly gives permission to fax the healthcare record. The language of
the written request 124 may vary as necessary to comply with any
applicable laws. It should be appreciated that the sticker 114 provides
great convenience to both an individual who wants to instruct their
healthcare provider to give them access to their medical records as well
as to the healthcare provider who can now easily provide the individual
with access to their medical records. The present invention further
contemplates that medical alert information can also be placed on the
sticker 114. The types of medical alert information includes, without
limitation, blood type information (i.e. ABO and Rhesus information),
allergies to drugs, presence of a pacemaker, diabetes, epilepsy, or other
conditions.

[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of such a sticker. Note that
in FIG. 12, a sticker 800 is shown. The sticker 800 includes instructions
to fax or email medical records 802 which serve to exercise a patients
rights under 45 C.F.R. §164.522 and 45 C.F.R. §164.524 (HIPAA
Privacy Regulations) to obtain a copy of their protected health
information (PHI) and to have such communications sent to the patient at
an alternative location. In particular, the instructions 802 instruct the
healthcare provider to fax a copy of the PHI to a personal, private
mailbox at a toll-free or local number after every visit and/or whenever
the PHI is updated so that the patient can maintain a copy of their PHI.
Alternatively, the instructions 802 provide for instructing the
healthcare provider to email the records to specified email address 810.

[0069] The sticker 800 includes a region 804 for the patient to print or
type their name and a region 806 for the patient to print or type their
date of birth. There is also a region 808 for the fax number to which
medical records are delivered. Preferably, the number is a toll-free fax
or local number assigned to the patient. There is also a region 810 for
an email address to which the medical records are to be submitted.

[0070] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate one embodiment of a LIFELINE card
116. The LIFELINE card has a front side 130 and an opposite back side
132. The card 116 includes the name of the individual 122, a URL for a
web site 136 which stores medical records for the individual. In addition
there is access information 134 such a username and password. The card
116 also includes the toll free dedicated phone number 120 associated
with the individual. On the back side 132 of the card 116 as best shown
in FIG. 3B, medical alert information 139 is provided. The medical alert
information 139 can include allergies which the individual has, medical
conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy, the presence of a pacemaker, or
other medical information that may be of great importance in evaluating
or treating the individual in the case of a medical emergency. The
medical alert information can further include blood type information
(i.e. ABO and Rhesus information). Also, instructions 138 are provided on
the card 116 to indicate how one could access complete medical records or
information about the individual.

[0071] The present invention contemplates including the sticker 114 (or
other permission/request document) and the LIFELINE card 116 in a welcome
kit when an individual or family subscribes or signs-up for the service.
In addition, from the web site associated with the service, preferably
addition stickers and/or additional cards can be printed and information
can be updated as necessary.

[0072] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another embodiment of a wallet card of
the present invention. The wallet card 820 includes a first side 822 and
an opposite second side 824. As shown in FIG. 13, the first side 822 of
the wallet card 820 has a first panel 826 and a second panel 828. The
first panel 826 includes identifying information about an individual and
emergency instructions 830. The emergency instructions 830 indicate that
protected health information can be accessed, in an emergency, at a web
site. The second panel 828 of the first side 822 of the wallet card 820
includes insurance information and signature of the patient.

[0073] As best shown in FIG. 14, the second side 824 of the wallet card
820 includes emergency contact information, including a secret question
or passcode so that the emergency contact person can better verify that
there is an emergency, and not a fraudulent notification. The second side
824 of the wallet card 820, also preferably includes information
regarding current medications, allergies, blood type, and medical
conditions which may be critical to providing appropriate emergency care.

[0074] FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a system of the present
invention. Preferably such a system is implemented using equipment from
Prairie Systems, Inc. of Omaha, Nebr., although the present invention
contemplates that other vendors may be used. As shown in FIG. 4, the
system 200 includes a fax/voice server 202. The fax/voice server 202 is
accessible by a fax machine 204 or a phone 208 through using a dedicated
phone number 206. Preferably, the phone number 206 is toll-free as this
increases the accessibility and convenience of the system which is very
important. However, the phone number 206 could also be a direct dial
phone number. When the fax/voice server 202 receives a call, a
determination is made in step 210 as to whether the call is a voice call
or a fax call. Where the call is a voice call, an interactive voice
response (IVR) system is used to determine who the caller is, the purpose
of the call, or other information, and then stores any voicemail message
in voice storage 212. The system is adapted to notify the individual that
there is a voicemail message through an email notification in step 214
and/or other types of notification in step 216. Other types of
notification can include, but are not limited to text messages to a cell
phone or pager. Thus, a healthcare provider can call the LIFELINE number
206 and leave a voicemail message for the individual and know that the
communication is a private communication. Thus, the healthcare provider
can leave private and confidential information, such as the results of a
test, or the need to schedule a new appointment, or other information.
The individual is alerted to the presence of the voicemail message and
can then call-in to the fax/voice server 202 to check messages.

[0075] Where documents are faxed, fax images are collected and converted
to portable document format (PDF) documents 218. Although, the PDF format
is preferred, the present invention contemplates that other types of
document conversions can be done as may be appropriate in a particular
implementation of the present invention. Based on the dedicated phone
number 206 used to send the documents, the faxed documents are assigned
to a user account and stored in step 220. The individual is alerted via
email that the documents have been sent in step 224. Alternatively, the
individual is alerted via text messaging in step 222 that a fax has been
sent.

[0076] The web site of the present invention provides a convenient
location to collect and store healthcare records and provide secure
access to the records. It also provides a convenient way to enroll in a
service for providing online access to health records. FIG. 5A and 5B
provides one embodiment of an enrollment process In FIG. 5A, a user 250
accesses a home page 252 for a medical records web site. In step 254, a
determination is made as to whether the user 250 is an existing member.
If the member is, then in step 256 the user is provided access to their
user interface as shown in FIG. 6. If not, then in step 258 a
determination is made as to whether the user 250 agrees to terms and
conditions of service. If not, then in step 260 the user is thanked for
their interest but not allowed to continue. The user is also given the
option or encouraged to output the terms and conditions to a printer in
step 262 so that they can review them closely and maintain a copy for
their records if they wish. If in step 258, the user agrees to the terms
and conditions of service then in step 264 the system collects user data.
User data 266 can include last name, first name, address information,
city, state, zip code, phone number, email/pager/mobile device
information, emergency contact name, emergency contact phone number,
primary care physician phone number, insurance information, allergies and
medications, and/or other information. If all fields are received in step
268, then in step 272 the system assigns a user name and password. It is
to be understood that the user may also request a particular username
and/or set their own password. Where a user selects their own password,
then in step 270, a determination is made as to whether the password
meets security requirements. For example, there may be a minimum number
of characters required, or there must be at least one numeric character,
or other requirements. Where the user is allowed to select their own
name, in step 274, a username database is searched and in step 276 a
determination is made as to whether or not the name is available. If it
is, then in 278 the user is permitted to create a personal identification
number (PIN). In step 280, a rule such as one requiring a particular
number of digits or a particular minimum digits is applied. In step 282
the PIN is validated and the enrollment process proceeds to billing
options in step 284. In FIG. 5B, the user is allowed to choose a plan in
step 286. The individual could, for example, choose an individual or
family plan from the plan options 288. In step 290, the user enters
credit card information 292 which may include a credit card number,
billing address, and CW number. This information is then submitted to a
payment processor 294. In step 298, a determination is made as to whether
the credit card information can be authorized for payment. If not, then
the number of retries is determined in step 296 and the user is allowed
to re-enter their credit card information in step 290. If there have
already been two tries to validate credit card information, then in step
300 the individual is told that they can not enroll at this time and
should try again later. If payment is authorized in step 298 then in step
302 a dedicated toll free phone number is assigned and an IP address
associated with the user is registered. In step 304 a user account is
created. In step 306 an email notification confirming registration is
sent to the user. In step 308 the user can begin to setup their personal
web site such as their database of doctors, family members, calendar, and
otherwise configure their web site.

[0077] Where a calendar is used, the present invention contemplates that
the calendar can be synchronized with an application such as Microsoft
Outlook, a calendar program associated with a PDA, or other personal
information manager.

[0078] After registration, the user can access the user interface of the
web site. FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the user interface 256.
The user 250 can access the homepage 252. In step 400, a determination is
made as to whether the system recognizes the ip address being used by the
user as being associated with the user. If the ip address is not
recognized then extra security measures are taken beginning in step 414.
In step 414 a username and a double level of password log-in is required.
If a valid log-in, then the process proceeds to step 424. If not, then in
step 418, the number of invalid log-in attempts or tries is monitored and
if it is three, then in step 420 the account is frozen. Returning to step
400, if the ip address is recognized as being associated with the user,
then in step 402 a username and a single level of password log-in is
required. In step 412 a determination is made as to whether or not the
password is valid. If a valid password, then the process proceeds to step
424. If not, then in step 404 a determination is made as to the number of
invalid attempts. After three invalid attempts, in step 406 the account
is frozen and in step 408 an email is sent to the individual who may, in
step 410, implement procedures to change the password and re-open the
account.

[0079] Returning to step 424, a determination is made as to whether the
account is associated with an individual or a family. If the account is
associated with a family, then in step 426, the user can select the
family member and access the family database 428. If, in step 424 the
account is not a family account, then in step 430 the user can view their
mailbox showing new PDF files and voice files. Preferably, these new
files include date and time stamps so that the user can see when the
files were received.

[0080] In step 432, the user is allowed to annotate the messages to better
identify the messages in a manner that is convenient for the user. In
step 434, the user can play the voicemail messages. In step 436, the user
can choose to save the messages to voice storage 438 or to send the
message to the trash 440. In step 442, the user can select a doctor to
associate with the voicemail messages. For example, the doctor from which
the voicemail or imaged document was received. Preferably the doctor is
within the doctor database 444. If not, then in step 460, the user can
update the doctor database 444 to include the doctor. The user can then
organize the voicemail or document according to the user's preference
into one or more file folders. Examples of file folders include RX 446,
XRAYS 448, LABS 450, EXAM NOTES 452, OTHER 454. The user can make new
file folders such as file folder 456 and identify it appropriately. The
user interface offers functions 458 such as movement of files between
folders, drag and drop, cut and paste, and/or other functions that will
assist the user in organizing their records.

[0081] The present invention provides for each of the file folders to be
protected with one or more additional passwords. Such an implementation
is particularly useful in a number of contexts. For example, the use of
multiple passwords allows information such as insurance information,
financial information, or other proprietary information to be protected
differently than the medical records.

[0082] Another example of where this extra layer of security can be useful
is where a single account is shared by a family consisting of two parents
and multiple children. Each parent may have their own folder separately
password protected so that the other parent can not access their folder,
but still allowing both parents to access the folders for the children.

[0083] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a screen display of the
present invention. In FIG. 7, the screen display 500 includes a menu bar
502 along the top with different menu items such as "Home" 504, "My
Medical Records" 506, "My Calendar" 508, "Manage Prescriptions" 510 and
"My Doctor" 512. The screen display 500 also includes a reminder to the
individual of their LIFELINE toll free dedicated phone number 514. A
message center 516 includes alerts as to recent faxes, voicemails, doctor
appointments, prescription refills, or other related events. The user can
view the recent faxes 518, and for each fax, can file it using fax filing
options 520 which allow the user to give a document title to the fax,
associate a physician with the fax, file the fax under a particular
account where the account is a family account, and identify the fax as a
prescription, x-ray/image, or lab report.

[0084] It should also be appreciated that a user need not fax themselves
documents. Instead, the user can upload scanned documents or other files
in any number of formats.

[0085] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of a screen display according to
one embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8, the screen display
550 also includes a files section 552 wherein different folders are shown
for storing and organizing information. This allows a user to store
records in a manner appropriate for them. In one embodiment, the folders
can include separate folders for lab reports, prescriptions,
x-ray/images, dental records, lab reports, prescriptions, and all
records. As shown in FIG. 8, there is a promotional space 554. The
present invention allows for promotional material to be placed in the
promotional space 554 that is of potential interest to the user. The
promotional information can come from a third party source or advertiser.
In additions, news information may be placed in a news information
portion 556 of the web page. The news information can include breaking
news regarding the medications that the patient is on, health and fitness
news, or other news of potential interest or importance to the user.

[0086] FIG. 9 is another example of a screen display 560 according to one
embodiment of the present invention. Note that a MYACCOUNT option 513 is
shown near the top of the screen display 560. Also note that a user is
allowed to select a family member using the dropdown list box 515. There
is also an upload record option 602 provided so that a user may upload
files of various types directly to their account.

[0088] A WHAT'S NEW portion 594 allows users to learn about new features
or other information. A FAMILY panel 596 can display information or links
to information relevant to families. A SENIORS panel 598 can display
information or links to information relevant to seniors. A DOCTORS panel
600 can display information or link to information relevant to doctors.
Of course, the present invention contemplates that panels 596, 598 and
600 need not be present, and where present can be used to convey other
types of information of potential interest to users.

[0089] FIG. 10 is another example of a screen display according to one
embodiment of the present invention. The screen display 610 allows for
folder administration. A folder administration portion 612 includes a
listing of multiple folders (16 shown) with a column 614 indicating the
current name for each folder and a column 616 indicating the new name to
be assigned to each folder. In operation a user can change the name of
the folders to suit their particular needs. Note that at least a portion
of the folders have a password associated with them. This provides an
additional layer of security to these files.

[0090] FIG. 11 is a screen display for an uploaded file feature according
to another embodiment of the present invention. The screen display 630
allows for uploading a medical record 602. The upload a record window 632
allows the user to select a file to be uploaded 634 by browsing 636 to
the location of the stored file. For example, if the user has chest
x-rays saved in a picture format such as a jpeg, they would be able to
browse 636 to the file and upload the file 634 to add to or to make
current their present set of medical records. The upload a record window
632 also allows the user to record a title 638 for the file uploaded 634.
Additionally, the uploaded a record window 632 allows the user to
associate the file uploaded 634 with the appropriate doctor selected from
a drop-down list 640. If the account is family or joint type account and
allows storing medical records for multiple persons, the user may use the
drop-down menu 642 to select the family member 642 to whom this newly
uploaded file 634 should be associated with. The upload a record window
632 also allows the user to record a date 644 associated with the newly
uploaded file 634. Lastly, the user has the option of selecting the
individual folders 646 where he or she would like a copy of the newly
uploaded file 634 to be saved. For example, the user may wish to save the
chest x-rays in the x-ray and images folder as well as other folders,
such as the emergency folder, lab report and/or surgeries folder. The
upload a record window 632 allows the user to periodically update their
personal medical records with important medical information and associate
that information with the appropriate folders. The upload a record window
632 also makes it easy for the user to browse to and save medical files
in electronic form in a convenient and organized manner.

[0091] In one embodiment, not only is a password required to access the
website, but an additional password is required to access such a folder.
This feature can be advantageous in a number of different situations. For
example, a family may share an account, but each spouse may maintain
certain files in confidence from the other. Or where healthcare
information is accessed in an emergency (or through fraudulent use of an
emergency card), the most private information which is protected with a
second level of password protection remains secure. As shown there are
buttons 618, 622, 624, 626 for providing a secondary level of password
protection.

[0092] FIG. 15 illustrates one embodiment of using the health-related
information collected to provide additional benefits to a consumer. For
example, the present invention allows for a system 800 that includes a
personal health records database 850 and a drug interactions database 852
operatively connected to an analysis system 854. The analysis system 854
is operatively connected to a drug interaction reporting component 856.
The personal health records 850 includes information regarding which
prescription drugs are being taken by the user. The drug interactions
database 852 includes information regarding known interactions between
different drugs. The analysis system 854 analyzes the prescription drugs
taken by the user to determine if there is any known interaction that may
be adverse in any way to the user. Based on the results of this analysis,
the drug interaction reporting component 856 reports the results to the
user, their pharmacist, doctor, or other healthcare provider as
appropriate. The present invention contemplates that drug interaction
reporting 856 can be reported in different ways to different people based
on factors such as user preferences regarding the drug interacting
reporting, the severity or certainty of a determined adverse drug
interaction, or otherwise. The present invention contemplates that in
addition to drug interaction analysis and reporting, other types of
analysis and reporting can be performed on the personal health records.
One of the advantages of the present invention is that it allows for a
convenient method to build and maintain complete and up-to-date health
records, thus allowing the personal health records to be analyzed in any
number of ways.

[0093] The present invention provides for numerous other features and
advantages. For example, the web site can provide reminders for doctor
appointments, prescription refills, or other events through email
reminders or text messaging reminders. In addition, the web site allows
the user to select the option of sending information via fax to a care
provider. For example, a user can fax a prescription to their pharmacy of
choice. In addition, the user can fax their medical records received from
one healthcare provider to another healthcare provider.

[0094] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the
healthcare records can include both medical records as well as dental
records. In addition, the healthcare records can include healthcare
records not just for humans, but for pets as well. Thus, a family could
manage healthcare records for every member of the family, including one
or more pets.

[0095] According to another aspect of the present invention, other vital
records are also stored on the web site. Examples of other types of vital
records include wills, living wills, healthcare power of attorneys, and
related information.

[0096] The present invention is not to be limited to the specific
disclosure provide herein. The present invention contemplates numerous
variations as may be appropriate in a particular context, environment, or
situation.